ThereS something irresistibly comforting about a bowl of soup that warms the soul and awakens the senses. Enter the velvety tomato and basil soup-a timeless classic reimagined with a rich, silky texture and a vibrant burst of fresh herbs. This luscious blend of sun-ripened tomatoes and fragrant basil leaves is elevated to new heights with a golden drizzle of high-quality olive oil, adding a subtle fruity richness and glossy finish. Whether enjoyed as a cozy meal on a chilly day or a sophisticated starter at a dinner party,this soup embodies the perfect balance of simplicity and elegance,inviting you to savor each spoonful of nature’s finest flavors.
Velvety Tomato & Basil Soup with a Golden Olive oil Drizzle
Velvety tomato & basil soup with a golden olive oil drizzle is a timeless classic that transforms humble ingredients into a bowl of pure comfort and elegance. This recipe invokes the warmth of an Italian countryside kitchen, where fresh, sun-ripened tomatoes and fragrant basil are lovingly combined to create a luscious, creamy soup that feels like a hug on a chilly day. Perfectly smooth and vibrant, each spoonful is elevated by a delicate drizzle of golden olive oil, adding an aromatic richness that finishes the dish beautifully.
Prep and Cook Time
- Readiness: 15 minutes
- Cooking: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
Yield
- Serves 4 generously
Difficulty Level
- Easy to Medium – perfect for aspiring home cooks eager to impress
Ingredients
- 2 lbs ripe roma tomatoes, halved (or plum tomatoes for sweetness)
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 large handful fresh basil leaves, plus extra for garnish
- 3 cups vegetable stock (low sodium preferred)
- 3 tbsp golden extra virgin olive oil, plus extra for drizzling
- 1 tsp sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- ½ cup heavy cream or coconut cream (optional for extra velvety texture)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the halved tomatoes on a baking sheet, drizzle with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, and sprinkle lightly with salt. Roast for 25 minutes until the tomatoes soften and caramelize, intensifying thier sweetness.
- While the tomatoes roast,heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until translucent and slightly golden, about 7-8 minutes.Stir occasionally to avoid browning too quickly.
- Add the minced garlic to the onions and cook for another 1-2 minutes, releasing its fragrant warmth without letting it burn.
- Transfer the roasted tomatoes (with their juices) into the pot.Pour in the vegetable stock and bring to a gentle simmer. add the sugar if using, then season with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
- Simmer the soup uncovered for 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the tomatoes to break down fully.
- Remove the soup from the heat. Add the fresh basil leaves and use an immersion blender to puree the soup until incredibly smooth and velvety. For an even silkier texture, strain through a fine-mesh sieve.
- Return the soup to low heat, stir in the cream if desired for richness, and gently warm for 5 minutes without boiling.
- Serve the soup hot in warmed bowls. Finish each serving with a generous drizzle of golden extra virgin olive oil-this not only adds luxurious flavor but creates an inviting sheen that catches the light beautifully.
Tips for Success: Making Your Velvety Tomato & Basil Soup with a Golden Olive Oil Drizzle
- Choosing tomatoes: Opt for vine-ripened or Roma tomatoes, rich in flavor and low in water content, ensuring a thick, concentrated soup. Avoid watery varieties to maintain the recipe’s velvety consistency.
- Fresh basil matters: Pick vibrant green leaves with no wilting or browning to maximize aroma and color. Tear them by hand rather of chopping to release essential oils without damaging the leaves.
- Roasting intensifies flavor: Don’t skip roasting the tomatoes-it’s the secret to deep sweetness and subtle smokiness that make this soup unforgettable.
- Golden olive oil drizzle: use a high-quality, fruity extra virgin olive oil, poured just before serving. it acts as a flavor bridge, enriching the palate and adding visual appeal.
- Variations: For a lighter version, omit the cream.To add a smoky note, sprinkle a touch of smoked paprika or gently roast garlic alongside the onions.
- Make-ahead tip: Prepare the soup a day in advance; flavors deepen overnight. Reheat gently and add fresh basil leaves right before serving to keep their vibrancy.
Serving Suggestions
The beauty of this tomato and basil soup lies in its simplicity, yet it deserves presentation that complements its rich flavors and silkiness. Serve with a swirl of cream or a dollop of crème fraîche for a decadent touch. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and a spoonful of your golden olive oil drizzle to catch the light and entice the senses.
Pair this comforting bowl with a crisp, herb-infused grilled cheese sandwich or a side of warm artisan bread rubbed lightly with garlic and olive oil. Crusty ciabatta or a flaky focaccia add delightful texture that contrasts the soup’s softness. For a fresh contrast, a light arugula salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette works beautifully.
| Nutrient | Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 180 kcal |
| Protein | 4 g |
| Carbohydrates | 18 g |
| Fat | 9 g |
Discover more appetizing recipes with fresh herbs and seasonal produce on our Fresh Herb Recipes page. For a deep dive into the health benefits of tomatoes, visit the Healthline overview.
Q&A
Q&A: Velvety Tomato & Basil Soup with a golden Olive Oil Drizzle
Q1: What makes this tomato and basil soup different from other tomato soups?
A1: The star of this recipe is its velvety texture, achieved by gently simmering ripe tomatoes and fresh basil before blending them into a luxuriously smooth puree. Unlike chunky or overly acidic tomato soups, this version balances sweetness and herbal freshness, creating a harmonious and comforting bowl. the golden olive oil drizzle adds a final touch of richness and a silky mouthfeel that sets it apart.
Q2: Why use fresh basil rather of dried in this recipe?
A2: Fresh basil brings a radiant, vibrant flavor and fragrant aroma that dried basil simply can’t match. It infuses the soup with fresh green notes that complement the natural sweetness of the tomatoes. Using fresh basil also ensures a vivid color and a more nuanced, layered taste that lifts the entire dish.
Q3: Can I use canned tomatoes, or do I need fresh ones?
A3: While fresh, ripe tomatoes are ideal for the best flavor and texture, good-quality canned tomatoes can be a convenient and delicious substitute, especially out of season. Choose whole peeled or crushed canned tomatoes with no added salt or preservatives for the richest results.Q4: What is the role of the golden olive oil drizzle?
A4: the golden olive oil drizzle serves multiple purposes: it imparts a silky richness and subtle fruity warmth, enhances the soup’s vibrant color, and adds a touch of elegance to the presentation. The oil’s quality is key-use extra virgin olive oil with a peppery, grassy profile to complement the soup’s fresh ingredients.
Q5: How do I achieve that perfect velvety texture?
A5: To get that silky-smooth finish, simmer the tomatoes gently to soften and concentrate their flavor, then blend the soup thoroughly-ideally with a high-speed blender or immersion blender. Straining the soup through a fine mesh sieve will remove any remaining solids, ensuring a creamy consistency without any graininess.
Q6: What are some creative serving suggestions for this soup?
A6: This soup shines on its own but can be accompanied by crusty garlic bread or a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts for crunch. For a gourmet touch, add a dollop of crème fraîche or swirl in some pesto. Pairing it with a crisp white wine or a refreshing iced herbal tea makes for a memorable dining experience.
Q7: Is this soup suitable for special diets?
A7: Absolutely! This recipe is naturally vegan and gluten-free,making it suitable for many dietary preferences. Plus, it’s low in calories but packed with antioxidants and vitamins from the fresh tomatoes and basil-comfort food that nurtures your body and also your soul.
Q8: Can I store leftovers, and how long will it keep?
A8: Leftover soup can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove to avoid breaking the silky texture. It also freezes well-just thaw slowly and stir before serving. The olive oil drizzle is best added fresh each time to preserve its vibrant flavor and color.
Whether you’re seeking a cozy meal on a chilly day or a light yet luscious starter to impress guests, this Velvety Tomato & Basil Soup with a Golden Olive Oil Drizzle offers both simplicity and sophistication in every spoonful.
Insights and Conclusions
As the final spoonful of this velvety tomato and basil soup warms your palate, the golden olive oil drizzle leaves a lingering kiss of richness that transforms a humble bowl into an elegant experience. This simple yet sophisticated recipe celebrates the vibrant harmony of fresh ingredients,inviting you to savor each sip and reconnect with the timeless comfort of homemade nourishment.Whether shared on a chilly evening or enjoyed as a light lunch, this soup promises to become a cherished classic in your culinary repertoire-proof that sometimes, the moast unassuming dishes hold the greatest delight.
